Emmerdale star Bradley Riches has confirmed that his car and coffee truck were stolen while he attended the Heartstopper Forever world film premiere in London. The actor, who plays Lewis Barton on the ITV soap, shared a tearful selfie on Instagram, describing his heartbreak over the loss of items he worked hard for.
Details of the Robbery
Riches attended the premiere on Tuesday evening (July 14) at London's Cineworld in Leicester Square. He walked the red carpet alongside co-stars Kit Connor, Joe Locke, and creator Alice Oseman. The film is set for release on Friday (July 17). Upon returning home, he discovered the theft alongside his new husband, Scott.
In the Instagram post, Riches wrote: "Always sharing the highs and the lows on here. This week started so perfectly. I got back from the Heartstopper premiere after having the best time… only to come home and find out I’d been robbed. My car is gone, but what breaks my heart the most is that my coffee truck has been taken too @bradleysbarandcafe. Two things I’ve worked so incredibly hard for, gone just like that. I’m absolutely heartbroken." He added: "To the person who took them, I hope you have a really bad day."
Support from Co-stars and Friends
Fellow actors and friends quickly offered support. Isabelle Hodgins commented: "Brad I hope they are caught!!!" Laura Norton wrote: "WHAT???? That’s awful Bradley. I hope you’re ok." Hollyoaks' Isabelle Smith said: "babe no :( i’m so sorry to hear this, sending you both so much love." Drag star Baga Chipz wrote: "Sending you lots of love bab." Theatre star Marisha Wallace posted: "Oh my baby I am so sorry." Christina McGuinness added: "Sending lots of love, positive energy and magical wishes."
Riches' Role on Emmerdale
Bradley Riches made his Emmerdale debut last year as Lewis Barton, the soap's first neurodivergent character. He has spoken about the importance of representation, saying: "As an autistic actor, stepping into this role feels deeply personal- finally getting to bring my whole self to the screen, without masking, without shrinking. It’s a reminder of how real burnout and masking can be, and how important it is to show those layers with honesty and care. I’m proud, I’m seen, and I’m so incredibly grateful to help tell a story that means everything to me."
